Down 1-0 against the Warriors, LeBron James is on the verge of seeing his NBA Finals record dip to 2-5 and if anyone knows his struggle, it’s Jerry West.
The Logo finished his career with a 1-8 record on the championship stage, finally winning in 1972. During yesterday’s media session West defended LeBron against those who criticize James for his losing record.
West, like LeBron, played brilliantly in his nine Finals appearances and won the 1969 Finals MVP in a losing effort against the Celtics. He finally got over the hump in 1972 when the Lakers defeated the New York Knicks in five games.
Via ESPN
“That’s the most ridiculous thing. If I were him, I’d probably want to strangle [detractors],” said West. “He’s carried teams on his shoulders. He’s been to the Finals six straight times. How many times has he been the favorite? None. Zero. Grossly unfair to him.
“I don’t want to sound like Donald Trump, but it’s hard for me to believe someone doesn’t recognize his greatness. This guy does everything, and he’s competitive as hell. Frankly, I wish people would leave him alone.”
